Powering the 718 Spyder RS is the same 500hp engine as the 911 GT3 Cup car
Thirty years after the presentation of the Boxster concept car, Porsche has unveiled the most powerful version of the popular mid-engined roadster yet – the new Porsche 718 Spyder RS.
For the first time, the 500 PS naturally aspirated six-cylinder boxer from the 911 GT3 features in an open-topped mid-engined sports car. The same lightweight power unit with its high-revving design also powers the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup racing car.
The six-cylinder boxer engine, which also makes a maximum torque of 450 Newton metres, is combined with a short-ratio seven-speed PDK transmission, catapulting the two-seater roadster from 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds.
The car hits the 200-km/h mark in just 10.9 seconds. Compared to the 718 Spyder without the ‘RS’ designation, the new range-topper not only benefits from an additional 80 PS, but also accelerates to 100 km/h half a second faster. The top speed is now 308 km/h instead of 300 km/h.
Like every modern RS model, the new 718 Spyder RS is available exclusively with the Porsche dual clutch transmission (PDK). This gearbox shifts through its seven gears at lightning speed and guarantees maximum performance. The gearshift paddles allow drivers to keep their hands on the steering wheel even when shifting gears manually.
Alternatively, the driver can use the ergonomically designed selector lever on the centre console. In addition to the more powerful engine, the new model’s lower weight also contributes to better performance: at 1,410 kilograms, the Spyder RS weighs 40 kg less than the 718 Spyder with PDK and is actually five kilograms lighter than the closed 718 Cayman GT4 RS. The Spyder RS represents the latest high-water mark of the model line started in 2016.
The front end of the new Porsche 718 Spyder RS is also almost identical to the front end of the 718 Cayman GT4 RS, with a standard front bonnet made of CFRP featuring a wide air outlet above the bumper. At the rear, Instead of a wing, the 718 Spyder RS features a striking tear-off edge shaped like a ducktail.
Inside, the cockpit is reduced to the functional and ergonomic essentials. The grippy RS sports steering wheel is covered with Race-Tex and features a yellow 12-o’clock marking. The standard full bucket seats are made of lightweight CFRP in a carbon-weave finish.
The seat covers are made of black leather, while the perforated Race-Tex seat centre features a contrasting colour with a black background. The contrasting colours are Arctic Grey or Carmine Red. A ‘Spyder RS’ logo in the corresponding colour is embroidered on the headrests.
That being said, the new Porsche 718 Spyder RS will celebrate its public premiere in June at the festivities marking 75 years of Porsche Sports Cars in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen. Shortly afterwards, it will make an appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in England.
